The National Weather Service in Springfield, Missouri, has issued a winter weather advisory from 9 a.m. to midnight Friday, Feb. 15. The advisory means that periods of snow, sleet or freezing rain will cause travel difficulties. Expect slippery roads and limited visibilities, and use caution while driving.

Follow these tips for preparing for a winter storm, traveling during bad weather or walking on ice. S&T’s custodial and landscape services staff will work to prepare campus walkways and parking lots for snow or ice. For more tips and information, visit the state of Missouri’s official winter weather safety site.

GENERAL WINTER WEATHER TIPS:

Monitor local news media for weather reports and emergency information

Look to the university website, alert.mst.edu, for information on cancellations or university closings

Stay clear of dropped or sagging power lines

Avoid areas with many trees; snow or ice may cause tree limbs to fall

Stay inside if possible

Use extreme caution when walking outside or driving

If you must travel:

Travel during the day

Stay on main roads; avoid back-road shortcuts

Carry emergency supplies or kits

Dress warmly to prevent frostbite or hypothermia

WINTER DRIVING TIPS:

The AAA recommends the following winter driving tips:

Stay home; if you really don’t have to go out, don’t

Avoid driving while you’re fatigued. Get the proper amount of rest before taking on a winter weather trip to reduce driving risks.

Always wear your seat belt

Watch the weather reports and road condition reports. Delay driving when possible. If you must leave, let others know your route, destination and estimated time of arrival.

SAFETY TIPS FOR WALKING ON ICE:

Look at the surface before you start walking. When you exiting a vehicle, brace yourself to get stability. Anticipate ice.

On ice, don’t walk with your hands in your pockets. Take shuffling steps.

Don’t step on uneven surfaces, curbs, or painted concrete

If you feel as though you are going to fall, roll with the fall and try and roll backwards. If possible, relax when you begin to fall and discard anything you are carrying.

Avoid walking on surfaces that have not been treated. Avoid shortcuts as they are typically located in areas where snow and ice removal is not possible.

Your University Police Department is always open and officers are always on patrol. Feel free to call or text the S&T University Police Department any time. The main number to the police department is 573-341-4300 (24 hour). You may also text the Missouri S&T Police Department via the Rave Guardian app.